London's Oldest Outdoor Statue

London's Oldest Outdoor Statue

The oldest outdoor statue in London - King Alfred.

This is the oldest outdoor statue in London, one of King Alfred the Great (871-899). The statue was moved here in 1822 when it was moved from it's niche outside the North end of Westminster Hall. It was supposed to be one of 8 many of which disappeared.

It is reputed to have been at Westminster since the 14th century and is a Grade II listed monument.

As with all ambitious claims, it is the subject of some controversy and dispute with an alternative background that its one of a pair representing Alfred the Great and Edward the Black Prince made for the garden of Carlton House in 1735. Carlton House was demolished and its grounds were cleared in 182729.